More than 1,000 racing pigeons prepare for VE Day

More than 1,000 pigeons from across the West of England are being prepared to play their part in the VE Day celebrations.

The Paulton Homing Society in Somerset is among many groups across the UK racing pigeons across the English Channel on Saturday 3 May.

During World War Two pigeons played a vital role in delivering messages when radio communications were disrupted. Many were awarded the Dickin Medal for bravery.

"These little things saved many soldiers' lives during the war," said Geoff Cooper, a member of the Paulton Homing Society.

"They were let go, they used to get shot, they came back with legs blown off - but they still delivered their messages.

"People don't realise what they do. They see a pigeon in the street and think it's a pest. But they'll fly 500 miles in 12 hours. They're remarkable."

This year, three special pigeon races from France will commemorate VE Day.

On Saturday, the birds will travel by ferry from Portsmouth to Normandy before flying 183 miles (294 km) from the town of Vire back to their fanciers' homes in Somerset.

"It's always something special," said Mr Cooper. "To see them dropping in one after another is lovely."

Catherine Cooper, also a member of the society, said the sport was "gradually dying" - and that events like these were vital to keeping it alive.

"I think pigeons are often overlooked for the part they played in the war," she said.

"People see them in towns and cities and think 'flying rats, disease-ridden' - which is totally wrong."

During wartime, racing pigeons were transported by U-boats or alongside agents parachuting into enemy territory.

"In the days of modern communication, it's easy to forget, but at one time, pigeons were modern communications," said Mrs Cooper.

"Some of the fanciers here were 10 years old when it was VE Day, and they're still racing their pigeons.

"We've got people in the club whose grandparents served in the pigeon service.

"This may be one of the last times there will be a memorial where veterans from that era are still alive."

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